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B2 Visa: What is the meaning, eligibility, and documents required?

TeamAckoJul 17, 2024

The B2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for tourism purposes for people visiting the U.S. This visa does not allow visitors to engage in any business activities or long-term study programmes while in the U.S. To be eligible for a B2 visa, applicants must prove their intent to return to their home country after the visit and financial stability to cover their expenses during their stay. Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of financial means, and a detailed plan of your trip.

b2-visa

Contents

US Visa Interview Wavier Program 2024
B2 Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria
B2 Visa Benefits
Documents required for B2 visa application?
How long is a B2 visa valid?
How to Apply for a B2 Visa?
B2 visa cost
How ACKO can help?
Questions People Ask About the B2 Visa

US Visa Interview Wavier Program 2024

You might not have to go through a visa interview if you want to visit the U.S. through the Interview Waiver Programme for B1/B2 visas. You can send in your application at a number of locations in India. All of this speeds up and simplifies the application process.

People who are eligible can apply for a waiver of the visa interview at any of the five Visa Application Centres in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, or New Delhi. The applications are free to submit. You can also pay Rs.850 and drop off your application at Document Dropoff Centres in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, and Pune.

B2 Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria

If you are looking to go to the U.S. on a b2 visa, you need to show that the purpose of your trip is temporary and for tourism purposes. You cannot study on a b2 visa. You will also need to show that you have enough funds to cover your expenses in the U.S. Additionally, you need to show that you have good ties with your home country and that will return back to India after the trip.

B2 Visa Benefits

The B2 visa offers several benefits for individuals visiting the U.S. These benefits include:

1. You can travel to the U.S. for tourism, vacation, or to visit friends and family in the U.S.

2. It lets you get medical care and stay in a hospital.

3. You can go to shows, social parties, sports games, and other similar events put on by businesses or groups.

4. You can come to the U.S. more than once, but each stay is usually limited to six months every ten years.

5. You can also request an extension of your stay in case your plans change.

6. Besides, getting a B2 visa is now simpler with the visa interview waiver, which speeds up the application process.

Documents required for B2 visa application?

If you want to apply for a B2 visa, you usually need:

A valid passport
Form DS-160 filled out
Passport-sized photo
Proof of funds for the stay
Day-wise travel itinerary
Visa fee payment receipt
Employer letter. Include your post, salary, employment period, authorised vacation, etc., in this letter.
Anything else the U.S. government or consulate asks for

How long is a B2 visa valid?

A B2 visa is typically valid for up to ten years from the issue date. The Customs and Border Protection officer will determine the length of stay in the United States with a B2 visa, which is typically six months for every ten years. However, extensions can sometimes be requested.

How to Apply for a B2 Visa?

Applying for a B2 visa is easy and straightforward. Just follow these steps:

1. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the DS-160 form accurately, upload a photo, and print the confirmation page.

2. Pay the Visa Fee: Print the payment confirmation page.

3. Schedule Appointments: Log in on the visa page and schedule two appointmentsᅳone for the interview at the Consulate or Embassy, and another for the Visa Application Center (VAC) for photo and fingerprint scan.

4. Prepare for VAC Appointment: Bring your valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment confirmation, and a photo if under 14 years old.

5. Prepare for Interview: Bring all required documents and be ready for the consular officer to decide if you qualify for the visa.

6. Pay the Visa Issuance Fee: Attend the visa interview, pay the fee and wait for approval.

B2 visa cost

The cost to apply for a B2 visa is typically USD 160. This application fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is ultimately issued or denied. Keep in mind that there may be additional costs for visa issuance, and fees can change, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for the most current information.

How ACKO can help?

Now, you can easily apply for a US visa through ACKO, simplifying the process for travellers. It only takes a few minutes to apply, and we will assist you from collecting the necessary documents to delivering your visa. As an added benefit, you can also get your travel insurance from ACKO, which gives comprehensive coverage throughout your journey. Check it out now and start your travels with ease and confidence.

Questions People Ask About the B2 Visa

The most common queries about B2 visa have been addressed in this section.

People with a B2 visa can work in the U.S.

No, people with a B2 visa are not allowed to work in the US.

Can B2 visa holders study in the U.S.?

You cannot enrol in classes or begin studying in the U.S. with a B2 visa until USCIS has approved your change of status. However, make sure you have enough time for USCIS to process this.

How long does B2 visa processing take?

The processing time for a B2 visa varies depending on the individual case but generally ranges from a few days to a few weeks.

Can a B2 visa be extended?

Yes, you can get an extension on your B2 visa if the USCIS agrees. But you should do it before your stay ends, and you need to file Form I-539 with a good reason.

How many times can I visit the US with a B2 visa?

If you have a B2 visa, you can visit the U.S. as many times as you want before the expiration date.

Can my parents visit me in the USA with a B2 visa?

Yes, but they need to apply separately.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet.